Motivational: Goal Setting

When setting your goals, make sure that they are meaningful and important to you. That way there will be value to you in achieving them. Your goals should be related to high priorities too, as motivation is the ‘key to success’.

You should always set SMART goals. SMART goals are very powerful. SMART goals are:

Specific – define the goal so that you are very clear on what the goal is and therefore will know what success will look like

Measurable – be specific on amounts, dates, etc. This will enable you to take stock as you progress and to clearly see that you are on your way to achieving your goal. Be precise, as this will help you to stick to your goal

Attainable – ensure that the goal is attainable. There is little point in setting an unachievable GOAL. It will only demotivate you and reduce your self confidence, so be realistic

Relevant - your goals should be relevant to the direction of your life, if they are not, you will be wasting your time

Time Bound – set realistic deadlines for your goals. This will help to keep you on track and provide a sense of urgency

Once you have set your goals, record them. Write down your goals and keep a note as to why they are important to you and refer to it often to keep you motivated. In fact, write a ‘Motivating Value Statement’, this is an explanation, similar to what you would say to a friend, to convince them that the goal was important; keep it and read it often, especially when you are lacking motivation of self-confidence.